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Focus on Africa

Focus on Africa

963 episodes — Page 6 of 20

Why did funeral plans for Zambia's ex-president Lungu cause a row?

Zambia's former president, Edgar Lungu, reportedly left instructions that his political rival and current president Hakainde Hichilema "should not come anywhere near his body". Edgar Lungu died on the 5th of June and ever since, his family and the Zambian government have been locked in a tussle over his funeral. However, following days of negotiations, arrangements for his burial have now been finalised. This isn't the first time Zambia has experienced burial disputes for deceased former heads of state, including for its independence president, Kenneth Kaunda. Is there no legislation to guide these eventualities? Lawyer John Sangwa provides the answers.Also, why there is a petition to ban pit bull dogs in Zimbabwe? And, as one the art world's leading figures, Cameroonian artist, Koyo Kouoh is buried, we explore the legacy she leaves behind. *CORRECTION: Tribute to Koyo was read by Ami Waickanee and not by Otobong Nkanga.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Sunita Nahar, Tom Kavanagh and Yvette Twagiramariya Technical Producer: Jack Graysmark Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 17, 202538 min

South Africa’s township parents 'forced' to seek former white-only schools

Poor resources, fears of crime and gang violence in townships on the outskirts of Cape Town, South Africa force some parents to send children on long daily commutes to former white-only schools. Nigeria's president pardons the late ‘Ogoni 9' activists 30 years after their execution. Why is the pardon being rejected?And coming to you soon the game on reclaiming looted African treasuresPresenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Tom Kavanagh, Yvette Twagiramariya and Bella Hassan in London. Technical Producer: Pat Sissons Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 16, 202529 min

Are South African troops ‘stuck’ in DRC?

The first group of South African soldiers deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo, arrive back in the country today. South Africa sent around one thousand five hundred troops to the DRC as part of a wider peacekeeping mission. In February, at least fourteen soldiers were killed during heavy clashes with the M23, a group fighting against the national government led by President Felix Tishekedi. At home in South Africa there has been public debate about the need for this deployment. Richard discusses the delayed end of mission amid reports of low morale and poor conditions in DRC with the BBC’s reporter, Nomsa Maseko. Also, Ghana makes significant progress in reducing child labourAnd does FIFA's expanded Club World Cup offer fresh opportunities to Africa's football clubs or not? Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya in London and Charles Gitonga in Nairobi. Technical Producer: Pat Sissons Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 13, 202530 min

Why has Ghana’s nurse strike escalated?

Hospital services in Ghana grind to a halt after a nurses' strike escalatesWhat are the implications of Afreximbank's credit rating being lowered to one notch above junkAnd will Ecowas ever realise its dream of a borderless region?Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Nyasha Michelle, Patricia Whitehorne and Tom Kavanagh in London. Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Technical Producer: Philip Bull Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi.

Jun 12, 202530 min

Kenyan blogger dies in police custody

A 31-year-old blogger, Albert Ojwang, has died in police custody in Kenya. A post-mortem revealed that he was hit on the head and his death was likely to have been caused by assault. The results of the post-mortem contradict police previous claims which said Albert had "sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall". His death has sparked widespread outrage in Kenya. We'll find out more about the case.Also, what happens to desperate people when humanitarian organisations cannot offer them the aid they need? And why Botswana has paused production at some of its diamond minesPresenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya Technical Producer: Craig Kingham Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard

Jun 11, 202535 min

Russia's Wagner Group leaves Mali

Russia says the paramilitary group Wagner has accomplished its mission and has left Mali, although a Russian presence remains in the West African country, through the Africa Corps. So what did the Wagner Group achieve?Why has a separatist movement on the tiny, remote island of Annobón that is part of Equatorial Guinea, appealed to Argentina for support with its independence claim?And new research shows that Africa now has more Christians than any other continent, surpassing Europe for the first time. We discuss what is driving that growth.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Alfonso Daniels, Nyasha Michelle, Victor Sylver and Joseph Keen Technical Producer: Craig Kingham Senior Producer: Patricia Whitehorne Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 10, 202533 min

Uganda: World Bank lifts loan ban

In 2023, Uganda voted in some of the world's harshest anti-homosexual legislation meaning that anybody engaging in certain same-sex acts can be sentenced to death. The World Bank decided to ban Uganda from receiving loans because of its legislation. The bank now says it's confident that new "mitigation measures" will allow it to roll out funding in such a way that does not harm or discriminate against LGBTQ+ community. We hear analysis.Also, why increasing numbers of people in Togo are thinking about leaving ECOWASAnd why is Nigeria importing cows from Denmark?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Yvette Twagiramariya and Bella Hassan in London. Charles Gitonga in Nairobi and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Technical Producer: Kane Masaba-Morgan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 9, 202527 min

How is Africa affected by the US travel ban?

Is Trump's latest travel ban part of a US disengagement from Africa?Why are many countries now shifting their views on Western Sahara in favour of Morocco?And how can digital skills be made more available for disabled people in Africa?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Sunita Nahar, Patricia Whitehorne and Tom Kavanagh in London, with Charles Gitonga, Richard Kagoe and Christine Ntayiai in Nairobi. Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 6, 202532 min

Lesotho: Why are mothers against 'bluetoothing'?

Mothers in Lesotho are campaigning against a needle sharing method which exposes drug users to the risks of HIV and other diseases, taking root in the country. What is 'bluetoothing' or 'hotspotting'?Also, the wider impact of the rising Islamist attacks in West Africa And why do people choose Hunger strikes as a form of protest, and are they effective?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya Technical Producer: Nick Randell Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 5, 202534 min

Dozens killed in twin Mali attacks

Mali's army says it has repelled attacks by jihadists on two military bases. Why is the Al-Qaeda linked group stepping up attacks? South Africa's continued hunt for an alleged illegal mining kingpin in LesothoAnd why is Nigeria the worst place in the world to give birth in?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Sunita Nahar and Tom Kavanagh in London. Blessing Aderogba in Lagos Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 4, 202531 min

Africa to benefit most from Bill Gates fortune

Microsoft founder, Bill Gates says that most of his fortune will be spent on improving health and education services in Africa over the next 20 years. The 69-year-old said, "by unleashing human potential through health and education, every country in Africa should be on a path to prosperity". He also tells us what he makes of online attacks against his philanthropy.Also, we hear about the devastating impact of war on Sudan's childrenAnd how an automated system is protecting birds in South Africa.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Yvette Twagiramariya, Bella Hassan and Tom Kavanagh Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 3, 202532 min

Nigerian flooding kills at least 200 people

Nigerian officials have warned there's little hope of finding alive around 500 people still missing after flash floods in Niger state. How are survivors coping?Mauritania’s Sidi Ould-Tah elected as the new president of the African Development Bank. What was the voting process like?And we meet one photographer who has turned his lens on insects to tell a bigger storyPresenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Sunita Nahar ,Yvette Twagiramariya and Nyasha Michelle in London. Blessing Aderogba in Lagos Technical Producer: Chris Ablakwa Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors : Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 2, 202529 min

Joshlin Smith: South Africa's human trafficking problem

A South African woman, Racquel "Kelly" Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis and their friend Steveno van Rhyn have been given life sentences after being convicted of trafficking her missing 6-year-old daughter, Joshlin Smith. The case has captivated and horrified audiences around the world. It has also highlighted the wider issue of human trafficking in South Africa. An anti-trafficking campaigner responds to the rulling and explains the extent of problem in the country. Also, Kenya and Mayotte sign a trade deal to boost economic ties. What will be traded?And a tribute to and an exploration of, Kenya's literary giant Ngugi wa Thiong’o, who has died at the age of 87.Presenter: Richard Kagoe Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Producers: Nyasha Michelle, Tom Kavanagh and Amie Liebowitz in London. Charles Gitonga in Nairobi Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 30, 202531 min

US halts international student visa applications

US embassies globally have halted student visa appointments, as social media vetting expands. How is Africa affected?Why is Zimbabwe's controversial radio tax now being implemented? And how AI can predict and prevent child malnutrition in Kenya?Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Yvette Twagiramariya and Bella Hassan Technical Producer: Chris Kouzaris Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 29, 202526 min

African leaders attend Russia's Security Summit

Russia's 13th International Security Summit in Moscow attracts over forty African leaders. How significant is it and what does it mean for the continent, especially for the Sahel? Also, Boeing seals a deal with the US Department of Justice over the fatal crashes of two 737 Max aircraft that killed hundreds of people. One family who lost their son and daughter-in-law in the 2019 Ethiopian plane crash share their reaction with us. And the impact of the temporary closure of Ghana's embassy in US over an alleged visa scandal.Presenter: Blessing Aderogba Producers: Tom Kavanagh and Nyasha Michelle in London. Charles Gitonga in Nairobi Technical Producer: Chris Ablakwa Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 28, 202534 min

Uganda suspends German military co-operation

Uganda cuts military ties with Germany following diplomatic rift.Somalia's government moves to control clan militias fighting al-Shabab - after allegations of serious atrocities.And will Starlink's strategy of 'winning big by thinking small' help them cover the African continent?Presenter: Blessing Aderogba Producers: Bella Hassan, Tom Kavanagh and Yvette Twagiramariya in London. Technical Producer Chris Ablakwa Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 27, 202528 min

Can the UN bridge the political divide in Libya?

The Libyan capital city, Tripoli, has been rocked by clashes between armed rival groups, and pressure is building up on the prime minister to resign as protests erupt in other parts of the country. Can the United Nations mission in Libya (UNSMIL) help to bring stability to the divided country?Smart cities are popping up across Africa, blending tech, data, and infrastructure to create the digital urban towns of tomorrow. But just how 'smart' are these projects?And we hear from victims caught in the crosshairs of Cameroon's Anglophone conflict, and also speak to the reporter of BBC Africa Eye's latest investigation looking into the country's deadly crisis.Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Tom Kavanagh and Nyasha Michelle in London. Blessing Aderogba is in Lagos Technical Producer: Chris Ablakwa Senior Journalist: Patricia Whitehorne Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 26, 202530 min

South Africa releases crime stats

As South Africa releases its latest crime statistics. Who are the main victims of violent crime and why does the country have such a reputation?Is there "democratic backsliding" in East Africa? What does this mean? We hear from a human rights activist.And talk to the man behind a lasting tribute to Thomas Sankara's memory.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Bella Hassan, Patricia Whitehorne and Yvette Twagiramariya in London. Frenny Jowi in Nairobi Technical Producer: Pat Sissons Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga. Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi.

May 23, 202534 min

President Trump confronts President Ramaphosa

The US President Donald Trump, confronted South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa with false claims of white genocide and land seizures during a tense White House meeting. It was reminiscent of the US President's ambush of Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy earlier this year. At a time when diplomacy means everything, how did the South African President fare and what next for the US/South Africa relationship?Also, who will the next President of the African Development Bank be?And we find out more about the former Mauritanian president, Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz, who has been jailed for 15 years.Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Sunita Nahar, Bella Hassan and Tom Kavanagh Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 22, 202531 min

Djibouti launches a crackdown on migrants

Why is Djibouti reportedly targeting Somalis and Ethiopians in a major anti-immigration crackdown?Can DR Congo's former President Joseph Kabila's immunity from prosecution be lifted by authorities?And what is driving the loss of Africa’s tropical forests?Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Bella Hassan, Yvette Twagiramariya and Blessing Aderogba Technical producer: Chris Kouzaris Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 21, 202529 min

South Sudan: A country constantly in crisis

There are concerns that South Sudan will relapse into an all-out civil war. But, why is peace in the world's youngest democracy so fragile? Also, what some young Africans think about the UK's tightening immigration policies.And how a swimming coach in Nigeria is providing inspiration and life lessons to children with disabilities.Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Jonny Hall Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Blessing Aderogba and Sunita Nahar Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editiors: Andre Lombard and Andre Muthengi

May 20, 202532 min

Child sex abuse uncovered in South Africa's illegal mines

A BBC investigation has found evidence that children are being trafficked into illegal mines and sexually abused across South Africa. Were assets of the Gambia's ex-leader Yahya Jammeh sold for a song?And a landmark ruling in Nigeria finds that the Football Federation's negligence contributed to the death of a footballerPresenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Bella Hassan, Patricia Whitehorne and Tom Kavanagh Technical Producer: Jonny Hall Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 19, 202526 min

Why is Burkina Faso's Ibrahim Traoré 'popular'

Burkina Faso's military ruler, 37 year old Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has skilfully built a persona of a pan-Africanist leader, determined to free his nation from what he sees as, 'the clutches of Western imperialism and neo-colonialism'. This message has resonated across Africa and beyond on social media. But what's fact and what's fiction? Why has Ethiopia's government banned the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) from taking part in elections? And Benin's bid to become Africa's cycling superpower. Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Producers: Yvette Twagiramariya, Patricia Whitehorne and Bella Hassan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 16, 202537 min

Mali’s junta dissolves all political parties

Mali's military junta has dissolved all political parties in the country. Why are the youth dissenting?Why are Nigerians being trafficked to Ivory Coast?And plans by Ethiopia to allow foreigners and companies to buy property in the countryPresenter: Blessing Aderogba Producers: Nyasha Michelle and Tom Kavanagh in London, Richard Kagoe and Frenny Jowi in Nairobi. Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 15, 202527 min

Ethiopia: Why are health workers striking?

Medical professionals in various parts of Ethiopia are on strike. They say they are seeking adjustments in salaries, improved benefits and better working conditions. We hear from Ethiopian doctors.Also, as the movie industry expands in Africa, so do concerns about the safety of actors.And we'll meet 19 year old Makhosazana "Khosi" Dlomo, who is breaking barriers as the first black female competitor in tent pegging.Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Chris Kouzaris Producers: Bella Hassan, Blessing Aderogba and Yvette Twagiramariya Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 14, 202527 min

More than 100 dead in Congo floods

The UN says "a double crisis" is facing the DR Congo, as it suffers flooding and mass displacement caused by ongoing conflict.Why is Sierra Leone’s largest diamond miner laying off more than 1,000 workers?And we visit churches in South Africa where polygamy is allowed.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Richard Kagoe in Nairobi with Nyasha Michelle, Yvette Twagiramariya and Tom Kavanagh in London Technical Producer: Pat Sissons and Kane Morgan Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 13, 202531 min

Zambia: US cuts aid over 'thefts'

The United States said it was pulling the plug on millions of dollars' worth of aid to Zambia's health sector after the country failed to tackle 'systematic' theft of much needed medicines. The US Ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gozales' said that the "difficult" decision was made after repeated warnings to the Zambian government, to safeguard vital drugs meant for the country's most vulnerable patients. We'll hear analysis.Also, why did the International Court of Justice dismiss Sudan's case of genocide against the United Arab Emirates?And the history behind one of South Africa's official languages, Afrikaans, which celebrates 100 years this year!Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Pat Sissons Producers: Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 12, 202534 min

What do African youth want from Pope Leo XIV

The Roman Catholic Church has a new leader, Pope Leo XIV. What do youth from the world's youngest Catholic population want?Why did billionaire and philanthropist Bill Gates decide to close his foundation in 2045?And how are parts of Zimbabwe's capital tackling an infestation of bed bugsPresenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Richard Kagoe and Frenny Jowi in Nairobi with Tom Kavanagh in London and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Technical producer: Craig Kingham Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi.

May 9, 202532 min

Women and the Catholic Church

Sister Ngalula is the only African woman to be appointed to the Vatican’s International Theological Commission. She previously spoke to the late Pope Francis about the need for more female leadership in the church. She says, although many roles in the Catholic clergy are technically open to women, fear among cardinals and bishops is blocking their participation. We hear from Sister Josée Ngalula.Also, why has the EU declared Tunisia, Morocco and Egypt safe for asylum seekers? And the campaign to add sunscreen onto the list of essential medicines, especially for those with albinism.Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Producers: Bella Hassan, Yvette Twagiramariya and Tom Kavanagh in London Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 8, 202536 min

People smuggling between Eritrea and Kenya

An investigation into a new dangerous people smuggling route through Northern Kenya. Why are large and ongoing protests continuing in Morocco? And food fraud: what is it? And why is it dangerous?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Amie Liebowitz, Stefania Okereke and Tom Kavanagh in London with Blessing Adegroba in Lagos Technical producer: Jonathan Greer Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi.

May 7, 202530 min

Port Sudan: Explosions in Sudan's de facto capital

Multiple explosions have been heard in Sudan's de facto capital, Port Sudan, for a third day in a row. Prior to the attacks the city had avoided bombardment and was regarded as one of the safest places in the war-ravaged nation. We hear analysis.Also, how and why Togo remains Africa's longest ruling political dynasties.And what is financial abuse and how to spot it? Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Producers: Yvette Twagiramariya and Nyasha Michelle in London Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 6, 202533 min

Is press freedom declining in the Seychelles?

Seychelles has long featured high in world press freedom rankings, but has the expulsion of a newspaper editor dented that image? We have a response from the governmentAs a Ugandan UN judge is jailed for forcing her maid to work as a slave-does she have support back home?And we meet Princess Oluwayemisi Oki - the woman behind a movement of female tricycle riders in Nigeria's Ondo state Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Richard Kagoe, Frenny Jowi, Tom Kavanagh and Bella Hassan Technical Producer: Jonny Hall Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 5, 202530 min

Ivory Coast: Why opposition leader removed from electoral list?

Ivory Coast's main opposition leader Tidjane Thiam has been struck off the electoral list. The judiciary has declared he is ineligible to run in October's presidential election due to his citizenship. Tidjane Thiam also held French citizenship which he renounced in order to run for the presidency. A court this week argued, that the former Credit Suisse boss forfeited his Ivorian nationality when he acquired French citizenship in 1987. We'll get analysisAlso, did past African National Congress party (ANC) governments in South Africa interfere with investigation and prosecution of apartheid-era crimes? President Cyril Ramaphosa has set up an inquiry. How will it work?And, how does money laundering work, what is a 'grey list' and how do countries can get off it?Presenter: Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Jack Graysmark Producers: Tom Kavanagh and Nyasha Michelle in London and Richard Kagoe in Nairobi Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 2, 202534 min

Why does insurgency persist in Nigeria?

Nigeria has appointed Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar as its 15th commander in its fight against militant jihadist insurgency. Why is it proving difficult to tackle?Why are healthcare workers in Mozambique on strike again? And plans to make refugee camps in Kenya self-sufficient after cuts in global aidPresenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Bella Hassan, Yvette Twagiramariya and Frenny Jowi Technical Producer: Philip Bull Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 1, 202531 min

Tension on Guinea and Sierra Leone border

Guinean troops have fired shots in the disputed town of Yenga, which is on the border with Sierra Leone. What's behind this unprecedented development? Also why are farmworkers in Kenya occupying tea plantations owned by multinational companies? And why we should be eating more fermented foods..Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Producers: Tom Kavanagh in London and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 30, 202526 min

Why is gender violence "widespread" in Namibia?

Why is gender based violence at a pandemic level in Namibia. How can it be reduced?We meet Botswana's Bitcoin Lady who is educating people on cryptocurrencyAnd we meet the artist who has designed more than 2000 album coversPresenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Richard Kagoe, Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 29, 202534 min

BBC Investigation reveals who shot at Kenyan protestors

In June last year, dozens of young Kenyans were killed and others wounded during days of anti -government demonstrations. The protestors wanted to occupy Kenya's parliament, to urge lawmakers not to pass a finance bill. Security forces protecting the premises opened fire at demonstrators, and at least three people were killed. No one has been held responsible for their deaths. An investigation by BBC Africa Eye shows how these protesters were gunned down.Also, how dozens of African migrants have been killed in a US air strike on a detention centre in a Houthi-controlled area in YemenAnd why South Africa is importing weevils to help fight a rapidly growing invasive plant!Presenter: Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Producers: Blessing Aderogba in Lagos and Tom Kavanagh in London Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Apr 28, 202526 min

Why did South Africa reverse a VAT increase?

South Africa's finance minister drops plan to increase value-added tax (VAT), in a major climbdown to prevent the collapse of the coalition government.10,000 illegal settlers reportedly removed from Ghana's largest forest reserve.And why is Uganda’s treasured shea butter becoming harder to harvest ?Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Frenny Jowi in Nairobi with Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya in London Technical Producer: Craig Kingham Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi.

Apr 25, 202533 min

'Ethiopians are one shock away from catastrophe'

In a stark warning, the head of the UN's food aid agency in Ethiopia said millions in the country are "one shock away from falling into a catastrophe". Zlatan Milišić's statement came as he announced that because of a lack of funding the World Food Programme was "being forced to halt treatment" for more than half a million malnourished women and children, starting from next month. How did Ethiopia get here?Also, French President Emmanuel Macron brings new promises to cyclone-battered Mayotte. Is it enough?And a prestigious award for Tunisian environmental campaigner, Semia Gharbi, who dared to challenge authorities over illegal waste dumping!Presenter: Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Gabriel O'Regan Producers: Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Tom Kavanagh, Patricia Whitehorne and Yvette Twagiramariya in London. Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Apr 24, 202529 min

A cocktail of long jail terms for Tunisian opposition leaders

Why were Tunisian opposition figures jailed on terror and conspiracy charges ?Are new cybersecurity laws in Zambia really aimed at quashing political dissent ?And Pope Francis remembered by someone who knew himPresenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Frenny Jowi in Nairobi with Tom Kavanagh, Victor Sylver, Yvette Twagiramariya and Bella Hassan in London Technical Producer: Philip Bull Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 23, 202528 min

Haiti: A growing challenge for Kenyan officers?

Haiti is facing a ‘point of no return’, says the UN's special envoy to the country, María Isabel Salvador. She also said that Member States must increase support to Haiti’s security forces, particularly the Multinational Security Support Mission, "not as a matter of choice but of necessity”. What does this mean for Kenyan officers on the ground? Also, Amnesty International says Ethiopia's so-called “corridor development” project is sparking fear and uncertainity amongst residents And what are Ponzi schemes and why do so many people fall victim to it? Presenter: Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Philip Bull Producers: Richard Kagoe in Nairobi. Tom Kavanagh and Yvette Twagiramariya in London and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 22, 202527 min

What was Pope Francis's relationship with Africa?

Pope Francis visited Africa multiple times and the continent has one of the fastest growing Catholic populations in the world. As tributes pour in after the announcement of his death, we hear from our Global Religion reporter on what his legacy will be in Africa.What's behind the deadly clashes between nomads and farmers in Nigeria's Benue and Plateau states?And why hearing loss is becoming a silent epidemic on the continent.Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya in London. Richard Kagoe and Frenny Jowi in Nairobi, and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos Technical Producer: Jack Graysmark Senior Producer: Patricia Whitehorne Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 21, 202529 min

Humanitarians working in Sudan speak

Sudan is facing the largest humanitarian crisis globally. As the country’s civil war enters its third year, the United Nations and Non-Governmental organisations say it civilians are continuing to pay the price, due to inaction. Humanitarians, some in the country, share their experiences. Also, what is the International Parliamentary group known as IPAC, and is China pressurising foreign politicians in Africa to withdraw from it?And, is there freedom of worship for Christians in a majority muslim Somalia? Find out from a Christian leader.Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Producers: Bella Hassan and Amie Liebowitz Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 18, 202537 min

Sudan’s rebel forces declare rival government

Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have declared the formation of a rival government in areas under their control, will that change the course of the civil war that is now entering its third year? Will former president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Joseph Kabila who is planning to return to country, help to find a solution to the conflict with M23 rebels? Why are Kenyan ants of interest to smugglers?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Tom Kavanagh in London, and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos Senior Producer: Patricia Whitehorne Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Apr 17, 202532 min

Kidnappings increase in South Africa

An American pastor who was kidnapped by armed men during a church service in South Africa last week has been rescued following a "high-intensity shoot-out". Police say three people were killed. Josh Sullivan was found unharmed in the township in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape province. Why is South Africa facing a rise in kidnappings? Also, why are women still dying during pregnancy and childbirth in West Africa?And why is India carrying out naval exercises along the East African coast?Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Nick Randell Producers: Bella Hassan and Sunita Nahar Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Apr 16, 202532 min

Will Africa benefit from rising gold prices?

Will African gold producers benefit from a surge in prices this year? There's been a price hike after the start of a global trade warAn inquest into the apartheid-era death of Nobel laureate Albert Luthuli reopens nearly 60 years laterPeople displaced by the Uganda oil pipeline complain that they ‘received inadequate compensation’Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Focus on Africa Frenny Jowi, Charles Gitonga and Richard Kagoe in Nairobi, Tom Kavanagh and Victor Sylver in London and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Technical Producer: Gabriel O'Regan Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 15, 202533 min

RSF takeover Zamzam camp in Darfur

The UN says more than 100 civilians, among them at least 20 children and a medical team, have been killed in a series of attacks in Sudan's western Darfur region. The attacks, on the city of el-Fasher and two nearby camps, Zamzam and Abu Shouk, have been blamed on the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). They say they've taken control of Zamzam, but denied reports of atrocities.Also, what's it like working in the uninhabited continent of Antartica?And what everyone should know about menopause.Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Pat Sissons Producers: Patricia Whitehorne and Bella Hassan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Apr 14, 202532 min

Rwanda asks UK to extradite genocide suspects

More than 30 years after the genocide in Rwanda, the country has asked Britain to extradite six suspects on UK soil. Can the suspects face trial in UK for the alleged crimes?As Gabon seeks to transition to a democratic system, could the coup’s mastermind General Brice Oligui Nguema win a presidential election?And why migratory birds that flock to Uganda maybe endangered. Presenter : Audrey Brown Producers : Charles Gitonga and Frenny Jowi in Nairobi with Victor Sylver and Tom Kavanagh in London Technical Producer: Pat Sissons Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 11, 202532 min

Former Gambian soldier trialled in the US

A former Gambian soldier, Michael Sang Correa, is standing trial in a US federal court in Denver, Colorado. Correa faces charges of torture and conspiracy to commit torture. Who is he and why is he being trialled in a US court?Also, what to do about the widespread use of artificial intelligence among university students in South Africa?And as Ghana's Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey steps into her role as Commonwealth Secretary-General, we explore the legacy of the past leader and the role of the organisationPresenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Producers: Tom Kavanagh, Bella Hassan, Daniel Dadzie and Patricia Whitehorne Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp

Apr 10, 202530 min

Can Tanzania benefit from US-China tariff wars ?

With US-China tariff wars escalating- how could Tanzania benefit?Is South Sudan on the verge of a return to civil war?And why a TV dating show in Ethiopia is causing controversy.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Frenny Jowi in Nairobi, Tom Kavanagh, Nyasha Michelle and Patricia Whitehorne in London and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Technical Producer: Pat Sissons Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 9, 202529 min